Defensive Mastery Redefined: Unpacking BYU’s Supreme Linebacker Corps in the Kalani Sitake Era
Since Kalani Sitake took the reins as head coach at BYU in 2016, the Cougars have seen a variety of defensive identities. From bend-but-don’t-break schemes to aggressive, blitz-heavy packages, Sitake and his staff have consistently adapted to the personnel at hand. But in 2024, it appears that BYU may have finally struck gold with a linebacker group that not only defines the heart of the defense but could be the best the Sitake era has seen.
This linebacker unit is a perfect storm of experience, athleticism, depth, and leadership. Veterans like Ben Bywater, who returns after recovering from injury, bring proven production and a calm, intelligent presence on the field. Bywater has led the team in tackles multiple seasons and is known for his sideline-to-sideline range and ability to sniff out plays before they develop. His return to full health is a major boost to a defense that struggled with consistency last season.
Then there’s Max Tooley, another seasoned contributor with a knack for making game-changing plays. Tooley brings versatility to the linebacker corps, often lining up in various positions and providing value in coverage, run support, and even pass rush situations. His leadership and energy are contagious, setting the tone for the rest of the defense.
What truly elevates this linebacker group, however, is the emergence of younger, high-ceiling talents. Players like Harrison Taggart, a transfer from Oregon, and A.J. Vongphachanh, a physical, downhill presence, add speed and toughness to the middle of the defense. These new additions blend seamlessly with the veterans, giving BYU a rare combination of explosiveness and football IQ at the second level.
Perhaps most impressive is the depth. Unlike previous seasons where injuries forced inexperienced players into key roles, this year’s linebacker room is stacked. The coaching staff can rotate players without significant drop-off, keeping the group fresh and allowing for more aggressive play-calling. Defensive coordinator Jay Hill, in his second year with BYU, now has the flexibility to disguise looks, mix up blitz packages, and rely on his linebackers to cover tight ends, plug gaps, and drop into zone coverage with confidence.
The evolution of this unit is also a testament to Sitake’s recruiting and development philosophy. BYU has increasingly focused on athletic, multi-dimensional defenders who can thrive in modern college football’s fast-paced environment. This linebacker corps reflects that vision, combining local recruits, savvy transfers, and developed talent into a cohesive, dangerous unit.
As BYU continues its journey in the Big 12, the strength of this linebacker group could be the anchor that holds the defense together against high-powered offenses. If they stay healthy and continue to gel, there’s little doubt: this may well be the most complete and dominant linebacker unit of the Kalani Sitake era — and perhaps a defining piece of BYU’s rise in Power Five football.
